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Pub trivia – fun facts you didn't know about wizarding inns

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__Spoiler warning! There are some mild spoilers ahead – turn back now if you’re not familiar with the stories…__

## The Leaky Cauldron is the oldest pub in London

Despite what many [Muggles](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/muggles) think, the title of oldest pub in London goes to this well-loved wizarding establishment. Found on Charing Cross Road, the [Leaky Cauldron](/fact-file/locations/the-leaky-cauldron) was built in the 1500s – long before Charing Cross Road was even planned! Its true address is number one, [Diagon Alley](/fact-file/locations/diagon-alley).

## Muggles used to frequent the Leaky Cauldron

This wizarding institution wasn’t always a place that where only magical folk congregated. As it was built two centuries before the imposition of the International Statute of Secrecy, it was initially visible to Muggle eyes too. Muggles weren’t made to feel unwelcome or turned away. Having said that, thanks to the *interesting* conversations and even more *interesting* magical pets, many scarpered before finishing their mead.

![LeakyCauldron WB F1 SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron Illust 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5sxx5inySIAWsKA0gcuUEG/ca736eb81e715e092136f42c579a2719/LeakyCauldron_WB_F1_SomeoneOutsideLeakyCauldron_Illust_080615_Land.jpg)

## Neville Longbottom and Hannah Abbott lived above the Leaky Cauldron

In a turn of events that we find extremely adorable, after leaving [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) not only did [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom) continue his passion for magical plants as [Herbology](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/herbology) professor, but he also married [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff), [Hannah Abbott](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hannah-abbott-fact-file). The happy couple decided to make a home for themselves living above the one-and-only Leaky Cauldron.

## A pub was the headquarters of a rebellion

Although we never learnt which one it was, according to *Sites of Historical Sorcery*, one of the wizarding pubs in [Hogsmeade](/fact-file/locations/hogsmeade) was said to have been the headquarters of the 1612 [goblin](/fact-file/creatures/goblin) rebellion. Could it have been the [Hog’s Head Inn](/fact-file/locations/the-hogs-head) which was known for its dubious dealings and schemes? Or perhaps it was the cosiness of the [Three Broomsticks](/fact-file/locations/the-three-broomsticks) that convinced the goblins to make it their base?

![pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2zygTLqXtChkWM7Asbbca3/14624eac244b6e0d0dd667458176dd1a/pottermore-moments-hp-b5-hogs-head-homepage-hero.jpg)

## The Hog’s Head Inn was run by a Dumbledore

While [Albus Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) ran Hogwarts, just down the road his brother, [Aberforth Dumbledore](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/aberforth-dumbledore-fact-file), ran the Hog’s Head Inn. Crochety and a big fan of goats, he and his brother didn’t always see eye-to-eye. Ultimately, they were both extremely good people and Aberforth even helped the resistance at Hogwarts after Albus’ death – thanks to a secret passage that connected the [Room of Requirement](/fact-file/locations/the-room-of-requirement) to his pub.

## Sybill Trelawney made her infamous prediction at the Hog’s Head Inn

The Hog’s Head Inn was the location of many crucial story moments from the founding of [Dumbledore’s Army](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/dumbledores-army) to [Hagrid](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/rubeus-hagrid) winning a dragon egg in a game of cards. However, there was one particular moment that changed the course of wizarding history forever. On a gloomy night, Albus Dumbledore went to interview [Sybill Trelawney](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/sybill-trelawney) for the role of [Divination](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/divination) teacher. He was thoroughly unimpressed until, among the ramshackle décor and sticky floor, she made her prediction about the boy destined to end [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) and rid the world of his evil!

![pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/YvfQFf3Sc7Y1rQNcmqoKm/7278f0704d0a659047a66375127ed129/pottermore-moments-three-broomsticks-homepage-hero.jpg)

## Katie Bell was given the cursed opal necklace at The Three Broomsticks

Run by Madam Rosmerta, the Three Broomsticks was a warm and welcoming establishment in Hogsmeade. Yet Dark Magic still managed to worm its way in there in the form of the cursed opal necklace. Part of a clumsy attempt on Dumbledore’s life, [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) Quidditch team member, [Katie Bell](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/katie-bell), took the necklace from the pub while under the influence of the [Imperius Curse](/fact-file/spells/the-imperius-curse) and narrowly escaped its deadly power.

## It wasn’t just witches and wizards who frequented the Three Broomsticks

Said to be as old as the only all-wizard village in Britain, the Three Broomsticks was a bit of a haven for all sorts of magical beings, such as hags, who couldn’t disguise themselves particularly well in the Muggle world. In fact, Ron and Hermione once thought they spotted an ogre!

Every quote to live by from your favourite witches

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Hermione wearing a red dress and smiling at Bill and Fleur's wedding.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

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## The importance of keeping things in perspective

![HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/qVjLFPXczR2mwGR54M1JK/5ffbc10854b90be415e66d18504a0f56/HP-F1-philosophers-stone-hermione-charms-learning-classroom-web-landscape)

‘Books! And cleverness! There are more important things – friendship and bravery…’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone

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Despite being known for her exceptional brain power, [Hermione](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger) also knew the importance of nurturing the other elements of her personality too. It’s a lesson she learnt in her first year after finding genuine friendship. It is also one that we could do with remembering too.

## Don’t be afraid to be bold

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3yxtbUPaKL5YRyOXEmcss7/b5f3840e6afd0c2e76548570d0532593/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-ginny-da-wand-determined-web-landscape)

‘…anything’s possible if you’ve got enough nerve.'

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Ginny Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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If you don’t ask you don’t get! As [Ginny](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley) reminds us, if we shy away from a challenge, we’re never going to achieve our dreams. If we find our courage? Well, the world is our oyster.

## Be proud of who you are

![HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/71JqjFqxFPKBLmoFUGKYJD/22d4d28400d268c5d1382d675b5ce1ae/HP-F4-goblet-of-fire-mcgonagall-desk-web-landscape)

‘It’s high time your grandmother learned to be proud of the grandson she’s got, rather than the one she thinks she ought to have...’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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The no-nonsense [McGonagall](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/minerva-mcgonagall) was a witch worth listening to! It’s all too easy to get caught up in the comparison trap, trying to think about who you *should* be and feeling inadequate next to others. However, you are brilliant just the way you are. You are one-of-a-kind. If the Head of [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) can see that – so can you.

## There is always hope

![HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5zrwB81bovDEUXWbMyCWia/26babee3a72e41ff8557681a28703f5a/HP-F5-order-of-the-phoenix-luna-da-room-of-requirement-casting-patronus-web-landscape)

‘The things we lose have a way of coming back to us in the end. If not always in the way we expect.’

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Luna Lovegood: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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When times are hard, it can be easy to give up hope and become despondent. Yet this poignant point from the wonderfully eccentric [Ravenclaw](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/ravenclaw) is a reminder that good days are on the horizon – even if we can’t quite see them yet.

## Don’t be afraid to dream big

![WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7uWvZ2RIgkybj8J1lCs5RA/39672ce02de6ff4e27d39381deb3c05f/WB-HP-F7-hermione-reading-promo-crop.jpg)

‘I’m hoping to do some good in the world!’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows

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No matter who you are, you *can* make a difference. If you channel Hermione’s determination, we’re sure you will go on to do great and brilliant things.

## An excellent reminder

![HP-F5-molly-weasley-harry-potter-web-10744](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/1ugOAEKJsmxHxy7rDSEkO8/d6f828346ab08de9e2eb69ed086fdf71/weasley-quiz-title-.jpg)

‘A good first impression can work wonders.'

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Molly Weasley: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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A sage piece of advice from [Mrs Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/molly-weasley)! She might have said this to Harry before his [Ministry](/fact-file/locations/the-ministry-of-magic) hearing, but we think this is something that can be applied to many different areas of your life. From making friends to job interviews, things are always easier if you start off on the right foot.

## Do what is right, not what is easy

![WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4L5hkIozTd68acqd3hpP2I/27590dc492caea34621b56bdd472e45b/WB-HP-F2-hermione-examining-potion-ingredients-with-cauldron-web-landscape.jpg)

‘Well, if you two are going to chicken out, fine… I don’t want to break rules, you know. I think threatening Muggle-borns is far worse than brewing up a difficult potion.’

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Hermione Granger: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

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Hermione was the witch who once declared being expelled to be a fate worse than death. To hear her trying to convince [Harry](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) and [Ron](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) to break the rules was rather shocking. Yet she raises an extremely valuable point. Sometimes you need to push the boundaries to do what is right. Following the rules can only go so far – especially if those rules cause more harm than good. It can be hard to stand up and be counted but we should all try to do so.

## Protect what is important

![WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6PcDR4xjlhQ8xtErVUHYBc/198864f4ef4413d1ed6e50f91411088e/WB-HP-F8-professor-sprout-web-landscape.jpg)

‘I feel that if a single pupil wants to come, then the school ought to remain open for that pupil.’

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Pomona Sprout: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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This was a brave statement from [Professor Sprout](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/pomona-sprout) in the wake of [Dumbledore’s](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/albus-dumbledore) death. [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) was so much more than a school. For many like Harry, it was a sanctuary and place they could call home. A place that should be protected. This is a sentiment we could all take on board. We should all work hard to take care of what, and who, is important to us.

## Don’t judge a book by its cover

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

‘What do I care how ’e looks? I am good-looking enough for both of us, I theenk! All these scars show is zat my husband is brave!’

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Fleur Delacour: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

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You might think glamorous and goodlooking [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would also be extremely vain. Yet she wasn’t. Filled with self-confidence, she didn’t judge her husband based on his appearance – she knew it was the content of his character that truly mattered. That attitude is one we think everyone should embody.

## Boundaries are good

![mcgonagall-web-header-wand](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/6J6heLMpK9Lee0eL8faPnj/18ebb3e1a6694c1ed440bf094b02a127/mcgonagall-web-headrer.jpg)

‘I do not generally permit people to talk when I am talking.’

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Minerva McGonagall: Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

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Quite right too! Don’t let anybody try to take your voice or diminish you. If someone tries to talk over you, channel your inner McGonagall and lay down the law – they’ll soon learn a valuable lesson.

Your birth month tells us your Harry Potter soulmate

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## January: The determined and dedicated Oliver Wood is your perfect match

![WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7iJHeRIUbca989dspC4c2t/a8eae533de5cb364c2b8ef17aa39c857/WB-HP-F1-philosophers-stone-oliver-wood-web-landscape.jpg)

When considering your ideal partner, you don’t want someone who is afraid of commitment and isn’t willing to put the work in. You want someone who is going to give the relationship their all. This is why you and [Oliver Wood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/oliver-wood) make a perfect pair. This [Gryffindor](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/gryffindor) proved his determination time and time again as [Quidditch](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/quidditch) Captain. He was always coming up with training techniques and drills to make the team better. Yes, some of his teammates might have complained about the early starts, but it didn’t put Oliver off… and it worked. That’s the type of dedication you admire.

## February: Your soulmate is the creative and eccentric Luna Lovegood

![WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5jiVEF9rz3GdDt6go666da/6431193cd66631881320a9921f2913fe/WB-HP-F5-luna-lovegood-wears-spectrespecs-with-quibbler-web-landscape.jpg)

There is nothing that bores you more than blending into the crowd. From your curious insights to your wacky wardrobe, you march to the beat of your own drum. You are proud to celebrate your uniqueness, and you are looking for a partner that doesn’t shy away from their individuality too. This is why [Luna Lovegood](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/luna-lovegood) with her [Spectrespecs](/fact-file/objects/spectrespecs) and radish-like earrings is your ideal match. The two of you would have a joyful relationship that celebrated creativity, eccentricity and a shared belief in the Crumple-Horned Snorkack.

## March: The brilliantly hilarious Ron Weasley is the one for you

![HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/51khMqIDGh7ltBpFgDIet4/4390b7228f2368b128a11304e8a73108/HP-F6-ron-in-bed-smiling-web-landscape.jpg)

Life’s too short not to have fun. Who wants to be miserable? Yes, serious things happen but you still want to find the joy in life, and you want a partner who can do that too. This is why you and [Ron Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ron-weasley) would make the perfect pair. From his ‘Merlin's most baggy Y-fronts’ exclamations to quippy ‘Oh, of course… I forgot we’ll be hunting down [Voldemort](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lord-voldemort) in a mobile library’ comebacks – his quick with would keep you entertained for life.

## April: The elegant and poised Fleur Delacour is your ideal soulmate

![hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7L4Bw903CP5Rnv0MuCknWF/16abc8334d6185d0b8be2af4c5f93c45/hp-f4-fleur-arrival-beauxbatons-great-hall-uniform-web-landscape.jpg)

Graceful, elegant and gliding through life – that’s the ultimate dream. You aren’t interested in awkward situations and embarrassing encounters; you want life to be as serene as possible. As you want this from your partner too, you and [Fleur Delacour](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/fleur-delacour) would make a flawless duo. No matter what situation she faced – from walking into the [Great Hall](/fact-file/locations/the-great-hall) for the first time to rejecting [Yule Ball](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/yule-ball) dates, she was always perfectly poised which is something you appreciate.

## May: The thoroughly good Cedric Diggory is who you’re drawn to

![HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/7Gg3rW3wpho401kh28ueXG/2ce6bdeb293a9f962407b31ab38c3c2b/HP-F4-goblet-fire-cho-cedric-walking-into-yule-ball-together-happy-web-landscape)

You have no time for people that like to play games in relationships. You abhor anyone who has a mean streak. You really can’t stand when people are rude to those around them. This is why [Cedric Diggory](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/cedric-diggory) is the perfect person for you. Despite being handsome, intelligent and an extremely talented wizard, this [Hufflepuff](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/hufflepuff) was also humble. He was *good*. He helped Harry despite him being his [Triwizard](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/triwizard-tournament) rival and never let being the rising star at [Hogwarts](/fact-file/locations/hogwarts) go to his head. Cedric is a partner you would always feel safe with… and he is perfect for you.

## June: Your soulmate is Lavender Brown who wears her heart on her sleeve

![HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/41iicwNjHTdrMVNZoiTdoC/ddf961f7074d912a9307c0dc9e2716aa/HP-F6-half-blood-prince-weasleys-wizard-wheezes-lavendar-looking-at-ron-web-landscape)

As someone who is often described as vivacious and an open book, you have real difficulty bonding with people who are closed off or reserved. You find those who keep their cards close to their chest rather unsettling – which is why [Lavender Brown](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/lavender-brown) is your soulmate. Whether she was snogging Ron in front of the whole [Gryffindor common room](/fact-file/locations/the-gryffindor-common-room) or giving him gaudy necklaces as a token of her affection, she was not afraid of her emotions or letting everyone else see them. This type of openness is something you can’t help but be drawn to.

## July: Your perfect match is loyal Neville Longbottom

![HP WB F4 Neville and his plant crop ](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/66z5lwGFVYTJTiW2dNdKfw/e99e49796545303b7dec644c11004840/NevilleLongbottom_WB_F4_NevilleLongbottomWithPlantPromoShot_Promo_080615_CROP.jpg)

Don’t underestimate [Neville](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/neville-longbottom). He might have initially been a clumsy underdog, but he soon surpassed that and became a [sword-of-Gryffindor-wielding](/fact-file/objects/the-sword-of-gryffindor) hero. One who was loyal to his friends, his school and loyal to what was right. As someone born in July, this is what you would like to find in a partner. You don’t want a person who could easily be swayed. You want someone who is as committed to you as Neville is to his [Mimbulus mimbletonia](/fact-file/plants-and-potions/mimbulus-mimbletonia), which is why he is the one for you.

## August: The logical and intelligent Hermione Granger is the one for you

![HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/5aJclseoYsrr4a0y0XPiQY/be44e1bfabc2a5f7422ed6e87a5df30e/HP-F7-deathly-hallows-part-one-hermione-bill-fleur-wedding-red-dress-web-landscape)

As somebody who is known for their sharp mind and love of learning, we think you and the [cleverest witch of her age](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/hermione-granger), who takes the largest books out of the [Hogwarts library](/fact-file/locations/the-hogwarts-library) for ‘light reading’, would get on like a house on fire. Your days would be spent verbally sparring with each other, debating Ancient Rune translations and generally broadening your minds and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

## September: The discerning Draco Malfoy is your wizarding soulmate

![WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4FeDA9gWYlkm3iFXZMUOF5/47927d38da6fcc8d4660a5cd92a7e6d6/WB-F3-draco-in-care-of-magical-creatures-with-monster-book-of-monsters-web-landscape.jpg)

There’s nothing wrong with being shrewd or ambitious, these are traits that you rather admire. In fact, you find someone who knows exactly what they want and how to get it extremely attractive. This is why [Draco Malfoy](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/draco-malfoy) is the one for you. We are in no way saying you are prejudiced or a bully like he was. However, the embodiment of [Slytherin](/fact-file/magical-miscellany/slytherin) traits, he was not afraid to openly say he liked the finer things in life or believe he deserved them – just like you.

## October: Fiery Ginny Weasley is your magical match

![GinnyWeasley WB F6 GinnyAtSlughornsParty Still 080615 Land](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/4otWY19HKE4WyOOy4Q0wSu/66177ea78a84f5e28b9fb79b2b961e51/GinnyWeasley_WB_F6_GinnyAtSlughornsParty_Still_080615_Land.jpg)

If there was a witch that knew exactly who she was, it was [Ginny Weasley](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/ginny-weasley). Having had a rough start at Hogwarts she blossomed into a fierce and phenomenal person – with an excellent talent for the [Bat-Bogey Hex](/fact-file/spells/the-bat-bogey-hex). That self-assuredness is something that you are looking for in a partner. You don’t want somebody who doesn’t take the time to work on being the best version of themselves. You want someone who is confident and powerful – exactly like Ginny.

## November: Harry Potter’s bravery is what makes him your soulmate

![HP-F8-harry-lake-web-header](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/3SzHQWDxZAPjea1KYpaIO0/cc24a62a6e35937f165b190cf14df8e6/harry_heaer.png)

[Harry Potter](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/harry-potter) is not afraid to confront the difficult things in life. He doesn’t shy away from a challenge or let fear stop him. He puts himself out there whether that’s soaring through the sky on his [broomstick](/fact-file/objects/broomstick), fighting the forces of evil or summoning up the courage to ask his crush to the Yule Ball. This is something that you strongly relate to. You’re not one to be called timid and you can’t stand cowardice. We’re not saying you’re necessarily an extrovert, but you stand up when it matters and that’s why Harry is your ultimate wizarding soulmate.

## December: The glass half-empty Moaning Myrtle is your perfect match

![HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape](//contentful.harrypotter.com/usf1vwtuqyxm/2HdGuqY9aOgGStQJii0yVY/5013a2d38cecb8e9f536e42f6dbf0036/HP-F2-chamber-of-secrets-moaning-myrtle-girls-bathroom-web-landscape.jpg)

There is no person that gets on your nerves more than the one who is relentlessly optimistic. You don’t have time from all that chirpiness and being constantly told to look on the bright side. In fact, being stuck with someone like that would be your worst nightmare. You want someone who will always look on the gloomy side – which is why [Moaning Myrtle](/fact-file/characters-and-pets/moaning-myrtle) (emphasis on the *Moaning*) is your perfect match. Despite her crush on Harry Potter, with your maudlin outlook, we’re sure you could win her over and many (un)happy centuries sitting in the [u-bend of a Hogwarts toilet](/fact-file/locations/moaning-myrtles-bathroom) discussing all the reasons why everything is awful.

For beginners, for novices, for Harry Potter superfans going 20 years-strong, dig deep into the wizarding world with our collection of features.

Features - Wizarding World

Narcissa Malfoy’s Lie and 3 Other Acts of Motherly Love

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Bellatrix bonds Narcissa and Snape in an unbreakable vow.

From Narcissa Malfoy's lie to Lily Potter's sacrifice, here are 4 examples that motherly love is the most powerful form of magic in the Harry Potter books.

Narcissa Malfoy's Lie & 3 Other Acts of Motherly Love | Wizarding World

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The Harry Potter series is about good, evil, magic, courage and death. But, between Lily Potter, [Molly Weasley](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/chapter-that-made-us-fall-in-love-with-molly-weasley), Narcissa Malfoy and Augusta Longbottom, the books are also about motherly love. Want proof? How about these moments...

## Narcissa Malfoy’s Very Dangerous Lie

Draco Malfoy’s mother Narcissa was cold, cunning and devoted to the Dark Lord. [But she was also a mother](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/in-defence-of-narcissa-malfoy), which meant she was willing to risk everything to make sure her son was safe. When Harry survived Voldemort’s Killing Curse for the second time, Narcissa pretended he was dead so she could get to Draco. Lying to the Darkest wizard that ever lived, in his angriest moment? That took serious courage…  

>Hands, softer than he had been expecting, touched Harry’s face, pulled back an eyelid, crept beneath his shirt, down to his chest and felt his heart. He could hear the woman’s fast breathing, her long hair tickled his face. He knew that she could feel the steady pounding of life against his ribs.  
>‘Is Draco alive? Is he in the castle?’  
>The whisper was barely audible; her lips were an inch from his ear, her head bent so low that her long hair shielded his face from the onlookers.  
>‘Yes,’ he breathed back.  
>He felt the hand on his chest contract; her nails pierced him. Then it was withdrawn. She had sat up.  
>‘He is dead!’ Narcissa Malfoy called to the watchers.  
>And now they shouted, now they yelled in triumph and stamped their feet, and through his eyelids Harry saw bursts of red and silver light shoot into the air in celebration.  
>Still feigning death on the ground, he understood. Narcissa knew that the only way she would be permitted to enter Hogwarts, and find her son, was as part of the conquering army. She no longer cared whether Voldemort won.  
>*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

## Lily Potter’s Ultimate Sacrifice 

We can’t very well talk about motherly love without mentioning Lily Potter’s sacrifice. Harry’s mother died trying to protect her baby boy, and in so doing, [shielded him](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/unsung-heroes-of-harry-potter-stories-lily-potter) from the most terrifying wizard in the world. What she did was more powerful than [Dark Magic](https://www.wizardingworld.com/collections/dark-arts), and it protected Harry for the rest of his life. Her death was the ultimate gesture of selfless, all-consuming love. 

>‘Your mother died to save you. If there is one thing Voldemort cannot understand, it is love. He didn’t realise that love as powerful as your mother’s for you leaves its own mark. Not a scar, no visible sign ... to have been loved so deeply, even though the person who loved us is gone, will give us some protection forever. It is in your very skin.’  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## Mrs Weasley’s Christmas Jumpers

[Molly Weasley](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/mrs-weasleys-defining-moments-from-boggarts-to-bellatrix) was the quintessential magical matriarch. She had her hands full with seven children, but that didn’t stop her loving Harry Potter like her own. When Harry woke on his first Christmas morning at Hogwarts to find one of Molly’s hand-knitted jumpers at the foot of his bed, it was worth all 39 of his cousin Dudley’s birthday presents. It was a really significant moment for Harry, post-[Privet Drive](https://www.wizardingworld.com/writing-by-jk-rowling/number-four-privet-drive), and summed up Mrs Weasley’s kindness and warmth. 

>‘I think I know who that one’s from,’ said Ron, going a bit pink and pointing to a very lumpy parcel. ‘My mum. I told her you didn’t expect any presents and – oh, no,’ he groaned, ‘she’s made you a Weasley jumper.’
>Harry had torn open the parcel to find a thick, hand-knitted sweater in emerald green and a large box of home-made fudge.   
>‘Every year she makes us a jumper,’ said Ron, unwrapping his own, ‘and mine’s always maroon.’
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

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Molly embraces Harry when he returns from Hogwarts

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## Augusta Longbottom’s Grandmotherly Protection 

Neville Longbottom was a somewhat surprising hero. Sure, he used to be as awkward as a bewitched Boggart on roller-skates, but he grew up to be a [true Gryffindor](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/why-neville-longbottom-was-always-a-true-gryffindor) – and for that, he can probably thank his [grandmother](https://www.wizardingworld.com/features/unsung-heroes-augusta-longbottom). Like Harry, Neville grew up without his parents. So Augusta, who always knew just how to keep him out of trouble, raised him. And she raised him beautifully. 

> As the walls trembled again, he led the other two back through the concealed entrance and down the staircase into the Room of Requirement. It was empty except for three women: Ginny, Tonks, and an elderly witch wearing a moth-eaten hat, whom Harry recognised immediately as Neville’s grandmother.  
>‘Ah, Potter,’ she said crisply, as if she had been waiting for him. ‘You can tell us what’s going on.’ 
>‘Is everyone OK?’ said Ginny and Tonks together.  
>‘’S far as we know,’ said Harry. ‘Are there still people in the passage to the Hog’s Head?’  
>He knew that the Room would not be able to transform while there were still users inside it.  
>‘I was the last to come through,’ said Mrs Longbottom. ‘I sealed it, I think it unwise to leave it open now Aberforth has left his pub. Have you seen my grandson?’  
>‘He’s fighting,’ said Harry.  
>‘Naturally,’ said the old lady proudly. ‘Excuse me, I must go and assist him.’  
>With surprising speed, she trotted off towards the stone steps.  
>*Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows*

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11 times Snape was the hardest teacher to please at Hogwarts

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Snape teaching potions from the Philosopher's Stone 

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Snape in his potions class room from the Order of the Pheonix 

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Here are 11 times he proved he was the most demanding teacher at [Hogwarts](/features/hogwarts "Hogwarts")... 

## Snape never suffered fools gladly…

> ‘Only [Muggles](/collection/muggles "Muggles") talk of “mind-reading”. The mind is not a book, to be opened at will and examined at leisure. Thoughts are not etched on the inside of skulls, to be perused by any [invader](/features/legilimens "Legilimens"). The mind is a complex and many-layered thing, Potter – or at least, most minds are.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## However, knowing too much was just as offensive to him

> ‘That is the second time you have spoken out of turn, [Miss Granger](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger"),’ said Snape coolly. ‘Five more points from Gryffindor for being an insufferable know-it-all.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*

## He seriously doubted all his students’ abilities…  

> ‘You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of [potion-making](/writing-by-jk-rowling/potions "Potions by J.K. Rowling") … As there is little foolish wand-waving here, many of you will hardly believe this is magic. I don’t expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses … I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death – if you aren’t as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## He almost always saved his most inspired tongue-lashings for Harry 

> ‘Then you will find yourself easy prey for the [Dark Lord](/features/lord-voldemort "Lord Voldemort")!’ said Snape savagely. ‘Fools who wear their hearts proudly on their sleeves, who cannot control their emotions, who wallow in sad memories and allow themselves to be provoked so easily – weak people, in other words – they stand no chance against his powers! He will penetrate your mind with absurd ease, Potter!’  
>*Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

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Snape headshot from the Order of the Pheonix 

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## He did not like Harry’s father, James, when they were at school together…  

> ‘How extraordinarily [like your father](/features/james-potter "James Potter") you are, Potter,’ Snape said suddenly, his eyes glinting. ‘He too was exceedingly arrogant. A small amount of talent on the [Quidditch](/collection/quidditch "Quidditch") pitch made him think he was a cut above the rest of us too, strutting around the place with his friends and admirers ... The resemblance between you is uncanny.’  
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*
 
## He was never terribly fond of Harry, either 

> ‘You might be labouring under the delusion that the entire wizarding world is impressed with you,’ Snape went on, so quietly that no one else could hear him… ‘but I don't care how many times your picture appears in the papers. To me, [Potter](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter"), you are nothing but a nasty little boy who considers rules to be beneath him.’  
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

## Not fond at all… 

> ‘That is just as well, Potter,’ said Snape coldly, ‘because you are neither special nor important, and it is not up to you to find out what the Dark Lord is saying to his [Death Eaters](/collection/characters-deatheaters "Death Eaters").’  
>*Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix* 

## He also wasn’t happy about the Weasley boys… 

> ‘Another ten points from Gryffindor. I would expect nothing more sophisticated from you, [Ronald Weasley](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley"), the boy so solid he cannot Apparate half an inch across a room.’  
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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Snape pushes Harry and Ron's heads down in the Goblet of Fire.

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## There were times he could be a bit funny. Mean, but funny…

> ‘Yes, it is easy to see that nearly six years of magical education have not been wasted on you, Potter. [Ghosts](/writing-by-jk-rowling/ghosts "Ghosts by J.K. Rowling") are transparent.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

## Even when he was trying to help

> ‘Potter, when I want nonsense shouted at me I shall give you a Babbling Beverage. And [Crabbe](/features/vincent-crabbe "Vincent Crabbe"), loosen your hold a little. If [Longbottom](/features/neville-longbottom "Neville Longbottom") suffocates it will mean a lot of tedious paperwork and I am afraid I shall have to mention it on your reference if ever you apply for a job.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

## It was probably wise to continue to live in heart-stopping fear of him all the same... 

> ‘Moronic though some of this class undoubtedly are, I expect you to scrape an ‘Acceptable’ in your [O.W.L.](/feature/17-painful-lessons-in-exam-hell-from-hogwarts-students "17 painful lessons in exam hell from Hogwarts students"), or suffer my... displeasure.’  
>*Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix*

11 times Snape was the hardest teacher to please

8 adorable moments between Harry and Ginny

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Here are eight sweet moments between [Harry](/features/harry-potter "Harry Potter") and [Ginny](/features/ginny-weasley "Ginny Weasley") to look back on.

## At King’s Cross Station
In *Philosopher’s Stone* Ginny begged [Mrs Weasley](/features/molly-weasley "Molly Weasley") to let her run over to him on [platform nine and three-quarters](/writing-by-jk-rowling/platform-nine-and-three-quarters). To be fair, she was probably only interested in his scar at this point. 
 
> ‘Harry Potter!’  
> Harry heard the little girl’s voice.  
‘Oh, Mum, can I go on the train and see him, Mum, oh please ...’  
> ‘You’ve already seen him, Ginny, and the poor boy isn’t something you goggle at in a zoo...’  
> *Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone*

## At the Burrow 
During Harry’s first visit to the [Weasley home](/features/the-burrow "The Burrow"), Ginny was a little flustered.  

> The moment she saw Harry, Ginny accidentally knocked her porridge bowl to the floor with a loud clatter. Ginny seemed very prone to knocking things over whenever Harry entered a room. She dived under the table to retrieve the bowl and emerged with her face glowing like the setting sun. Pretending he hadn’t noticed this, Harry sat down and took the toast Mrs Weasley offered him.  
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

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Bill and Charlie fight with tables in the Burrow's garden.

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## At Flourish and Blotts
When [Draco Malfoy](/features/draco-malfoy "Draco Malfoy") tried to embarrass Harry at [Gilderoy Lockhart’s](/features/gilderoy-lockhart "Gilderoy Lockhart") book signing, it was Ginny who defended him.  

> ‘Leave him alone, he didn’t want all that!’ said Ginny. It was the first time she had spoken in front of Harry. She was glaring at Malfoy.  
> ‘Potter, you’ve got yourself a girlfriend!’ drawled Malfoy. Ginny went scarlet as Ron and Hermione fought their way over, both clutching stacks of Lockhart’s books. 
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

## On Valentine’s Day
When Ginny (anonymously) sent Harry a Valentine’s Day message.
 
> ‘His eyes are as green as a fresh pickled toad,   
> His hair is as dark as a blackboard.  
> I wish he was mine, he’s really divine,  
> The hero who conquered the Dark Lord.’     
> *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets*

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Decorating the Great Hall for St. Valentine's day.

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## When Ginny gave Harry a ‘get well soon’ card
When Harry fell off his [broomstick](/features/broomsticks "Broomsticks") and ended up in the hospital wing thanks to some dangerous [Dementors](/writing-by-jk-rowling/dementors-and-chocolate), Ginny turned up ‘blushing’ with a singing ‘get well soon’ card. 

> He had a stream of visitors, all intent on cheering him up. Hagrid sent him a bunch of earwiggy flowers that looked like yellow cabbages and Ginny Weasley, blushing furiously, turned up with a ‘get well’ card she had made herself, which sang shrilly unless Harry kept it shut under his bowl of fruit.  
> *Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban*
 
## At the Yule Ball
Remember when [Ron](/features/ron-weasley "Ron Weasley") told Ginny she should go to the [Yule Ball](/image/weird-sisters-yule-ball) with Harry? Ginny was miserable when she had to say she’d already accepted [Neville Longbottom’s](/features/neville-longbottom "Neville Longbottom") invitation, though neither Ron nor Harry seem to know why.

> ‘I can’t,’ said Ginny, and she went scarlet too. ‘I’m going with – with Neville. He asked me when Hermione said no, and I thought ... well ... I’m not going to be able to go otherwise, I’m not in fourth year.’ She looked extremely miserable. ‘I think I’ll go and have dinner,’ she said, and she got up and walked off to the portrait hole, her head bowed.  
> *Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire*

## When Harry began to realise he had feelings for Ginny
After Ginny broke up with [Dean](/features/dean-thomas "Dean Thomas"), Harry started to wonder if there would ever be a time to ask her out. Especially given Ron’s attitude towards her boyfriends.    

> Once or twice Harry considered asking for Hermione’s help, but he did not think he could stand seeing the smug look on her face; he thought he caught it sometimes when Hermione spotted him staring at Ginny, or laughing at her jokes. And to complicate matters, he had the nagging worry that if he didn’t do it, somebody else was sure to ask Ginny out soon…  
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

## And finally…

> Harry looked around; there was Ginny running towards him; she had a hard, blazing look in her face as she threw her arms around him. And without thinking, without planning it, without worrying about the fact that fifty people were watching, Harry kissed her.  
> *Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince*

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8 of Draco Malfoy’s meanest Muggle mockeries

PMARCHIVE-8 of Draco Malfoy’s meanest Muggle mockeries

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After Draco curses Hermione's teeth, Harry aims a pimple jinx at Malfoy, but it deflects onto Goyle.

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Just like his father, [Draco](/features/draco-malfoy "Draco Malfoy") loved to hate on [Muggles](/collection/muggles). He took particular pleasure in taunting [Hermione Granger](/features/hermione-granger "Hermione Granger"), who just happened to have Muggle parents. Malfoy called her ‘Mudblood’, a very grave insult referring to a wizard or witch born to non-magic parents.

Here are some of his most searing stabs at Muggle-born wizards...

<p>1. ‘I really don’t think they should let the other sort in, do you?  They’re just not the same, they’ve never been brought up to know our ways. Some of them have never even heard of Hogwarts until they get the letter, imagine. I think they should keep it in the old wizarding families.’ </p>

<p>2. The smug look on Malfoy’s face flickered. ‘No one asked your opinion, you filthy little Mudblood,’ he spat.</p>

<p>3. ‘Granger, they’re after Muggles,’ said Malfoy. ‘D’you want to be showing off your knickers in midair? Because if you do, hang around... they’re moving this way, and it would give us all a laugh.’ </p> 

<p>4. ‘…Father actually considered sending me to Durmstrang rather than Hogwarts, you know. He knows the headmaster, you see. Well, you know his opinion of Dumbledore  – the man’s such a Mudblood-lover – and Durmstrang doesn’t admit that sort of riffraff.’</p>

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<p>5. ‘Want one, Granger?’ said Malfoy, holding out a badge to Hermione. ‘I’ve got loads. But don’t touch my hand, now. I’ve just washed it, you see, don’t want a Mudblood sliming it up.’</p>

<p>6. ‘Too late now, Potter! They’ll be the first to go, now the Dark Lord’s back! Mudbloods and Muggle-lovers first!’ </p>

<p>7. ‘The Inquisitorial Squad, Granger,’ said Malfoy, pointing toward a tiny silver ‘I’ upon his robes just beneath his prefect’s badge. ‘A select group of students who are supportive of the Ministry of Magic, hand-picked by Professor Umbridge. Anyway, members of the Inquisitorial Squad do have the power to dock points… So, Granger, I’ll have five from you for being rude about our headmistress… Oh yeah, I forgot, you’re a Mudblood, Granger, so ten for that…’  <p>

<p>8. ‘If you’re wondering what the smell is, Mother, a Mudblood just walked in,’ said Draco Malfoy.</p>

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Behind the scenes: Designing the Golden Snitch

PMARCHIVE-Behind the scenes: Designing the Golden Snitch

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The snitch flying from the Philosopher's Stone 

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Extracted from *Harry Potter Page to Screen: The Complete Filmmaking Journey*.  
___

Everyone thinks they know how the [Golden Snitch](/features/golden-snitch "Golden Snitch") should look. The designers knew they had to get it right.

Though the Golden Snitch would fly digitally, many design studies were done to refine its aerodynamics. In the end, thin ribbed wings, almost in the form of a sail, were attached to a walnut-sized metal ball that combined art nouveau shapes with industrial design.

‘In theory,’ says production designer Stuart Craig, ‘the wings would retract into the grooves on the sphere so that it reverts back to just being a ball.’

The Golden Snitch props themselves were electroformed in copper and then plated with [gold](/feature/meaning-and-mythology-of-gold-in-harry-potter "The meaning and mythology of gold in Harry Potter").

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Behind the scenes: Creating the Gryffindor common room

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A celebration in the Gryffindor Common Room 

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Extracted from *Harry Potter Page to Screen: The Complete Filmmaking Journey*  
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The art department wanted to take a specific direction in the design of the Gryffindor common room to ensure that it was a warm, inviting, safe place.

‘Harry lived in a cupboard under the stairs,’ explains set director Stephenie McMillan. ‘We wanted a contrast with that rather unpleasant existence. 

The common room is Harry’s first comfortable home experience. It’s warm, literally, with a massive fire-place; beaten up, lived-in sofa; and threadbare carpet – it’s a place that’s restful and secure.’

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The sofa cushions were designed by Stuart Craig, and the hanging on the wall is a reproduction of *The Lady and the unicorn*, a medieval tapestry from the Musée de Cluny in France, which worked well with the red and gold colours of [Gryffindor](/collection/all-about-gryffindor "Hogwarts houses: Gryffindor") house.

The room hardly changed through the years, though new portraits of past heads of Gryffindor were added in *Prisoner of Azkaban*, as well as a small oil painting of a Quidditch match and a Hogarth-inspired picture of wizards playing cards.

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5 friendship lessons we learned from Dobby the house-elf

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Dobby bows to Harry in his bedroom in Privet Drive

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Dobby holds the sock which grants his freedom from the Malfoys.

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The plucky house-elf may have had his awkward moments (such as the cake incedent, hiding Harry’s personal post and almost getting him expelled weren’t ideal) but you can’t say he was never a great friend.  

While we don’t condone violence towards desserts or banging your head repeatedly with a lamp, we can all look to Dobby for a lesson in how to be a good friend.

So what did the bravest house-elf in the wizarding world teach us about friendship?

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## Sometimes you need to show tough love
Agreeing with your friends and backing them up is all well and good, but sometimes what they want is not what they need. Dobby’s methods of keeping Harry out of Hogwarts in *Chamber of Secrets* maybe weren’t such a good idea (see the aforementioned cake-dropping) but he had great intentions.

While all Harry wanted was to go back to school, Dobby knew it was a dangerous place and it would be safer, albeit more miserable, to stay at the Dursleys’. He also knew he’d have to be tough and do unpopular things to make that happen.

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## Help your mates in their hour of need
A good friend will do anything to help out their buddy, whether that’s sitting up until four in the morning talking about a bad date, picking them up from the airport, or stealing Gillyweed from a teacher’s private stores to help them breathe underwater. What, just us?

The moment Dobby overheard (faux) Mad-Eye Moody talking about the properties of Gillyweed, he sped off to steal Snape's stocks so Harry wouldn’t fail in his second Triwizard Tournament task, even though getting caught would probably have got him sacked. 

We’re not suggesting nicking anything for your pals but you get the idea. Dobby would do anything to be a good friend. 

## Stand up for your friends 
Whether it’s defending your friend’s honour in front of the school bully or telling off their boyfriend/girlfriend for upsetting them, standing up for your mates can be nerve-wracking.

Dobby was so committed to defending Harry that he stood up to the intimidating Lucius just moments after being freed from servitude.

Using magic on a wizard a whole lot taller than you must have been terrifying, yet Dobby did everything in his power to stop Malfoy from harming Harry. 

## Keep their secrets 
We all know that Dobby had trouble with not letting things slip, but he knew when to cover for his friends in their embarrassing moments.

Fellow house-elf Winky was devastated to have lost her job with Barty Crouch Jr, and descended into a drinking spiral at Hogwarts. To spare her blushes, Dobby would move her to the [Room of Requirement](/features/room-of-requirement-infographic "The many states of the Room of Requirement") when she had one too many and try to keep her spirits up in those dark moments.

So maybe we should take a leaf out of Dobby’s book and not put those pictures of your friend falling over in the nightclub up on Facebook. 

## Never let anybody hurt the ones you love
None of us ever want our pals to be hurt, but Dobby was even willing to put himself in danger to save his friends.
In *Deathly Hallows*, Dobby threw himself between Bellatrix Lestrange and Harry, announcing: ‘Dobby has come to save Harry Potter and his friends.’

His unwavering devotion led to Dobby’s heartbreaking death, but to the end he was a loyal friend through and through. 

Now if you’ll excuse us, we’re off to have a little cry.

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An illustration of Dobby in Harry's bedroom.

5 friendship lessons we learned from Dobby

Behind the scenes: bringing Quidditch to life on screen

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Harry and Draco race to the snitch in a quidditch match 

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Extracted from *Harry Potter Film Wizardry*.  
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[Quidditch](/writing-by-jk-rowling/history-of-the-quidditch-world-cup) is essentially created on the computer. All the actors are filmed separately on their [brooms](/features/broomsticks "Broomsticks"), which are held and moved by a rig. They act and react while a motion-control camera films the performance in front of a blue or green screen. This coloured background is later eliminated when the actors are incorporated into the complete CGI environment by the visual effects department.

With little to interact with but the blue and green screens, filming Quidditch scenes was ‘one of the more gruelling experiences for the actors,’ says Chris Columbus, director of the first two Harry Potter films. ‘Riding those brooms was a tremendously difficult thing, but to create a sense of movement, a sense of urgency, and, at the same time, to feel as if there were real athletes playing a game, was the biggest challenge.’

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Harry playing quidditch in the Half Blood Prince  

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To make sure the story of each Quidditch scene is clear, and that the necessary excitement will be built when all the pieces are assembled, every move in a Quidditch match is carefully plotted in a series of detailed storyboard sketches well before filming begins.

The movements between these key shots are then worked out on computers using simple animation known as previsualisation or ‘pre-viz’. This process gives the filmmakers a good sense of how many different elements they will have to combine in the final shot, and creates a preliminary shooting list for each individual player’s moves, which are subsequently filmed one by one. 

It’s an incredibly time-consuming process. A shot that features 10 players, for instance, might involve a week’s filming before the visual effects team can even think about starting work. On screen, that shot might last just two seconds.

Technological advances during the making of the series have made it possible for Quidditch to be filmed in an increasingly exciting way.

‘Inside a computer we do just about anything,’ says visual effects supervisor Tim Burke. ‘Players’ cloaks can be made to flap and whip around, and moves in the game that would be impossible for an actor to perform can now be made by a digitally animate version of the actor.’

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